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California MLPA South Coast Study RegionDescription of MPAs: Round 3 Revised SCRSG Proposal 3

Created September 10, 2009

Revised: October 22, 2009

Total number of MPAs/closures: 43

Number of SMRs: 30

Number of SMCAs: 9

Number of SMPs: 0

Number of SMRMAs: 1

Number of Military Closures: 3

MPA Name MPA ID Bioregion MPA Boundaries (Exact or Approximate) Designation Level of

Protection Proposed Take Regulations Other Proposed Regulations

Point Conception SMR 76712 North Mainland North: 34 27' and MHTLSouth and West: State water lineEast: 120 23'

SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

Designation is not intended to and will not regulate military activities. DFG and U.S. Department of Defense should coordinate regulatory language similar to Vandenberg SMR.

Naples SMR 76732 North Mainland North: MHTLSouth: 34 25'East: 119 56'West: 119 58'


None

UCSB SMR 76722 North Mainland North: MHTLSouth: State waters lineEast: Landmark = Campus Point/Goleta PointWest: 119 53.6'


Designation is not intended to impede ongoing operation, maintenance, and monitoring associated with UCSB seawater intake and outfall.

SMCA = state marine conservation area SMP = state marine park SMR = state marine reserve 1



MPA Name

Point Conception SMR

Naples SMR

UCSB SMR

Regional Goals/ Objectives Site Specific Rationale Other Considerations

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4)

To replicate and protect key habitats and species biodiversity. Point Conception SMRprotects most key habitats in an area of strong upwelling that provides persistent phytoplankton primary production, supporting a high historic diversity and abundance of most native marine species including great whites, sea otters, spawning squid, seabirds and marine mammals. Larvae interchange and retention are facilitated by a confluence of ocean currents.

This SMR contains an internationally recognized ecological transition zone between north and south ecotones, supplying larvae to the Northern Channel Islands and receiving larvae from the central coast ecosystem. Humqak, The Western Gate at Point Conception, is a Chumash sacred site with submerged artifacts and several shipwrecks. The onshore area is lightly populated, unpolluted, with limited private access, and far from the nearest Santa Barbara port and the small boat launch at Gaviota, ideal for both preservation and conservation. The area is prime for eco-tour opportunities.The SMR extends in an offshore fan to the western-most state waters line to capture rare hard 30-100m rocky habitat. It provides about 18 square miles (sq mi) of coastal habitat coverage, excluding the offshore fan, which adds approximately 11 sq mi to total 29.41 sq mi, the largest proposed SMR in the study region.

G2: (O-2,O-3), G3: (O-2), G4: (O-1), G5: (O-4,O-5)

This MPA achieves Goals 3 and 4 of the MLPA.

A heritage reserve. Lightly populated, the Naples area and its reef are a priority for protection for much of the local community. Including Naples captures an area of rareand outstanding substrate diversity, featuring high pinnacles, deep holes and crevices, ledges and caves found nowhere else in north mainland.

The Naples area has been attracting fishermen, non-consumptive scuba divers and research scientists for decades. Heavy local conservation activity is ongoing along the Naples shoreline focused on maintaining open space and recreation values, preserving the important harbor seal haulout, and protecting a regionally outstanding tidepool and emergent beach rock complex. These MLPA goal 3 and 4 considerations are met uniquely by including Naples.Highly productive for its size, this tiny 2.57 sq mi Naples SMR presented in round 2, scored as highly as the 29 sq mi Point Conception SMR in the SAT modeling deletionanalysis.This SMR does not meet DFG feasibility guidelines by extending to the state waters line because the extension was not needed to achieve the goals of the SMR and would have resulted in large negative socioeconomic impacts.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-1,O-3,O-4)

To protect habitat and species diversity. This SMR represents and protects a wide diversity of habitat types including eelgrass, surfgrass, kelp, rocky reefs, shallow subtidal, rocky intertidal, oil seeps, sand, and the estuarine inputs of Devereux Slough.

The existing kelp lease in this location would need to be relocated. Continuation of kelp reefs on either side of this SMR allow for comparison of fished vs non-fished areas. Notable species in the areas include snowy plovers, sea otters, lobsters, nearshore rockfish, abalone, seabass, sea cucumbers, grunion spawning, and sand dollar beds.This area also has one of the longest histories of scientific research (MARINe and LTER monitoring sites) in part due to the close proximity of UCSB and the Marine Science Institute, and incorporates the public outreach potential and enforcement already in place with the UC Natural Reserve at Coal Oil Point and an active community presence along the coast, especially from the UCSB campus.






Goleta Slough SMR 76725 North Mainland Extent of estuary in state waters SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, scientific research, study activities including rivermouth opening, dune restoration, and dredge spoils deposition. Boating, swimming, wading, and diving not related to the activities described above are prohibited. Other restrictions exist on accessible areas.

Goleta Slough SMR (continued)

Mishopsno SMCA 76723 North Mainland North and East: MHTLSouth: 34.19.9'West: 119 30.8'

SMCA High The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except the commercial take of Coastal pelagic finfish by Pelagic round haul nets.

None

Mugu Lagoon SMRMA 76727 North Mainland Extent of estuary in state waters; west boundary is the south/seaward side of the Highway 1 bridge.

SMRMA Very high All commercial and recreational take is prohibited except current allowed waterfowl hunting.

Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, scientific research, or military operations.




MPA Name

Goleta Slough SMR

Goleta Slough SMR (continued)

Mishopsno SMCA

Mugu Lagoon SMRMA


G1: (O-4,O-5), G3: (O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-2,O-4)

Goleta Slough SMR protects and provides representation of regionally significant estuarine habitat including salt marsh, mudflat and salt flat, and the diverse species assemblage associated with them.

Goleta Slough SMR will provide and extend research opportunities to expand knowledge of the relationships between estuarine, terrestrial and marine systems.

This estuarine MPA provides SMR protection to replace existing SMP designation which is inappropriate. SMR designation reflects customary use at Goleta Slough. University use for education and research is important and intent of designation is to enhance and sustain this use. MOU concerning research and educational take should be incorporated into management of this SMR. Restoration activity is also specifically considered an appropriate use. Including estuaries in a regional MPA network protects the ecological role of estuaries and key ecological processes including larval export and retention functions, nutrient cycling, nursery habitat for marine species, food sources, mudflat habitats, and anadromous fish populations and habitat. Estuaries, including Goleta Slough, provide important migratory bird protection (Pacific Flyway) including at least 20 special status bird species - a designated "globally important Bird Area."

Provides juvenile habitat for species like halibut, mullet, and leopard sharks. Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, scientific research, study activities including rivermouth opening, dune restoration, and dredge spoils deposition.

G1: (O-2), G2: (O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G6: (O-1,O-2,O-3)

To protect representative habitats and with them a comprehensive assemblage of associated species. In a relatively small area, this SMR fulfills SAT habitat replicate spacing requirements representing and protecting a wide array of habitat types including nearshore habiatts, rocky reef, rocky intertidal, sandy habitats, sandy beaches, a cobble/boulder reef at Rincon, gravel substrate, maximum kelp and surfgrass beds.

A motivation for this SMCA is to meet the habitat spacing guidelines for the hard bottom substrate 0-30m depth range. Leaves Carpinteria Reef open to consumptive commercial and recreational activities to minimize socioeconomic impacts. There are two piers in this SMCA but both are oil piers and not used for fishing. Also, there is a conservation legacy here with Carpinteria Bluffs onshore and owned by a local land conservancy, Carpinteria State Beach close by and Carpinteria Salt Marsh is part of the UC reserve system.

Recommend DFG to consider MOU with State Parks and Native American communities to create an educational and stewardishp partnership MPA aimed at enhancing cultural, educational, and historical opportunities present at this site.

G1: (O-3,O-5), G2: (O-3), G3: (O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-4)

This designation protects the largest estuarine lagoon habitat in southern California and its associated speicies. High concentration of birds and bird species, marine and estuarine fish exist here. A regionally exceptional estuary, it abuts an ASBS and features very low and restricted access. Protects a significant brown pelican breedingcolony, and habitat for migratory birds and water fowl. Likely nursery for marine fish species. Protects ecological processes such as larval exchange and retention, food supply and nutrient cycling, and habitats including for southern steelhead.

Provides excellent research opportunities and enhances opportunities to restore water quality and remedy past abuses.

There is contaminated sediment in the lagoon, and runoff from surrounding agriculture activity. Customary use of area for water fowl hunting is included via SMRMA designation.Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, scientific research, or military operations.






Lachusa SMCA 76719 North Mainland North: MHTLSouth: State water lineWest: -118 53.5'East: -118 50'

SMCA High The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except:1. The recreational take of Pelagic finfish by Spearfishing; Pacific bonito by Spearfishing; White seabass by Spearfishing; Coastal pelagic finfish by Dip net; and Market squid by Dip net.2. The commercial take of Swordfish by Harpoon.

None

Point Dume SMR 76716 North Mainland North: MHTLSouth: State waters lineWest: 118 50'East: 118 47.2'


None

Point Dume SMR (continued)

Palos Verdes SMR 76713 South Mainland North: diagonal line following border of current DFG-enforced fishing district 19ASouth: 33 44' from the state wates line to 118 23'East: MHTL and 118 23'West: State waters line


None




MPA Name

Lachusa SMCA

Point Dume SMR

Point Dume SMR (continued)

Palos Verdes SMR


G1: (O-1,O-2,O-5), G2: (O-2,O-3,O-4), G3: (O-1,O-2), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-3,O-4)

To protect habitat and species biodiversity while meeting SAT preffered size. The Lachusa SMCA completes the Point Dume preferred size cluster, sited to efficiently include high quality replicates of all SAT key ocean habitats except 30-100m rock (unavailable), at outer limit of SAT spacing guideline to north, capturing persistent kelp, rocky and soft intertidal, sub-tidal and surf grass. SMCA Coincides with ASBS, state and county parks and Chumash submerged sites.

SMCA allows for some take but maintains a high LOP. Eastern division with Dume SMR at whole minute line allows high LOP fishing in northern Zuma County Park. Western boundary limit at half minute to just achieve kelp replicate size, which is not available in the Point Dume SMR. Spacing for nearshore habitats including maximumkelp is obtained via inclusion of Mishopsno SMCA. In recognition of fishing impacts, kelp further to the west was not included so the spacing requirement for kelp persistence was exceeded slightly. To maintain the MPA cluster food web's natural function, abundance, reliability and resilience, commercial seining for small pelagic forage species is not permitted.

Recommend DFG to consider MOU with State Parks and Native American communities to create an educational and stewardishp partnership MPA aimed at enhancing cultural, educational, and historical opportunities present at this site.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G2: (O-2,O-3), G3: (O-1), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-5), G6: (O-3,O-4)

At preferred size, in ASBS protected water quality, the Point Dume backbone MPA cluster is located to protect and replicate all key offshore habitats but one (unavailable 30-100m rock,) insuring complete local and network habitat connectivity for ecosystem functionality, biodiversity and species resilience.

Forms cluster with Lachusa SMCA to create unusual rocky-sandy-rocky coastal ecosystem microcosm with all key habitats and most study area species represented.Good wind pressure from SE and NW for strong nutrient upwelling at submarine canyon, kelp, surfgrass, seal haul out, whale scratch zone, bird nesting on cliffs; retention areas on both sides of point, good biodiversity, ASBS water clarity, quality; far from nearest ports; captures western Santa Monica ecotone limit. Recreational opportunities, access/launch sites for ecotours, diving, surfing, swimming, kayaks. Protects excellent primary and secondary forage production and retention of phytoplankton, algae, spawning and juvenile habitat for invertebrates, anchovies, squid etc: the forage base for likely to benefit species abundance and productivity needed to provide highest fitness larvae for the long journey north to the next significant reefs and kelp forest in Santa Barbara.

Strong community support and utilization of the area by non-consumptive citizens is present for this MPA.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-3,O-4)

As a headland SMR, this backbone MPA protects species biodiversity and marine food webs while contributing to the sourcing and retention of larvae, representing a complete range of bio-regional marine species. Protects all sandy habitats, Lunada Bay, an important surfgrass bed and nursery area for key marine species, persistent kelp forest, and rare 30-100m deep rocky habitat.

SMR protects high quality representative replicates of almost all SAT key ocean habitats (only missing deepest hard), in interactive connectivity across the range of depths, with the assurance of a resilient primary production base nourished by upwelling submarine canyon nutrients.

The diagonal line is the result of a balancing act between three competing aspirations: 1) propose effective marine reserves that satisfy all the habitat protection goals of the MLPA, 2) minimize negative impact to fishing by following fishing district 19A line, where existing management measures are in place that restrict nearly all commercial fishing, and 3) still allow fishing in some of the few areas of Palos Verdesthat have relatively safe shore access for kayak fishermen, shore fishermen, and divers (Malaga Cove and Bluff Cove).






Palos Verdes SMR (continued)

Bolsa Chica SMR 76726 South Mainland Extent of estuarine waters in state waters with a western boundary at the east side of the Warner Street Bridge. Note: MarineMap won't allow modification to conform to that boundary.


Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance or management activities including estuary mouth opening, scientific research, dune restoration, deposition of sediment and related activities as needed.Boating, swimming, wading, and diving not related to the activities described above are prohibited. Other restrictions exist regarding time of entry, accessible areas and allowed management activities.

Upper Newport Bay SMR 76724 South Mainland North Boundary is the inland side of the Highway 73 Bridge; otherwise, boundaries conform to the extent of estuarine waters in the study region as described in Title 14 of the Fish and Game Code.


Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, and scientific research.Other restrictions exist regarding swimming areas, boat speed, shoreline access and access fees.




MPA Name

Palos Verdes SMR (continued)

Bolsa Chica SMR

Upper Newport Bay SMR


Regarding the northern boundary: The diagonal line follows a current DFG enforced line, drawn between the westernmost extent of Rocky Point and the southernmost extent of Malibu Point, which demarcates DFG Fishing District 19A. Leaves maximum fishing for Redondo in play.The hanging SE corner respects historic high PV fishing effort while economically capturing SAT-required beach habitat for replication and spacing between Dume/Lachusa SMR and Laguna SMR. The best available alternative to the hanging corner is to extend south to state waters limit, nearly doubling the 16.1 sq mile reserve's size to 28.58 sq miles, and a preferred size, but with larger negative socioeconomic impacts.

G1: (O-4), G3: (O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-4), G6: (O-3,O-4)

To protect nursery habitat and estuarine ecological process. Designation achieves protection and representation of a tidally influenced coastal wetland. SMR includes and protects nursery habitat for marine species and is an area of importance for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. Designation incorporates and protects estuarine ecological process such as larval retention and export, nutrient cycling; andprovides important research opportunities into poorly understood relationships between terrestrial, estuarine and marine systems.MLPA goal 3 is particularly well met here due to access and educational facilities andprograms serving a large urban population.

This SMR modifies the existing MPA to change designation and regulations to SMR. Forthcoming guidance from department managers regarding allowed take/adjacent ecological reserve are intended to be incorporated/accommodated. Features a robustcorps of stewards/docents, volunteer educators and interpreters conducting outreacheducation, providing signage. Tremendous investment engagement of community in protection and education has generated engagement and pride among local community that will help steward, enforce, interpret and extend public understanding of MLPA goals. Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management including estuary mouth opening, scientific research, dune restoration, and deposition of sediment as needed.

G1: (O-4), G3: (O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-4)

To protect esturine habitat and its associated species. Designation achieves representation and protection of this unique inland estuary. Upper Newport Bay is an important resting and feeding area for birds along the Pacific Flyway including endangered clapper rails. Protection is also designed to include and protect ecological processes such as nutrient cycling and larval exchange, protect foodwebs and habitats including salt and mud flats and salt marsh.Protection provides opportunities for needed research into the relationships between terrestrial, estuarine, intertidal and marine system.

This existing SMP is modified to an SMR to address the inappropriate use of "Park", to remove appearance of protection, and to align regulations to customary use. Guidance being sought from local managers will be addressed regarding allowed useif any.Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance management, and scientific research.






Newport Coast SMCA 76718 South Mainland North: MHTL from south bank jetty of Newport Bay's entrance to Abalone Pointat 117 49.2'South: diagonal line from the northwestern corner at 33 35' and line coming south from the jetty and a southwestern corner at 33 33' and 117 49.2'.East: Abalone Point (117 49.2') south to 33 33', adjacent to Laguna Beach SMR.West: south bank of Newport Bay's entrance due south to latitude 33 35'

SMCA Moderate low Commercial and recreational take of sheephead, rockfish, rays, sharks, marine plants and invertebrates is prohibited, except(a)the recreational take of lobster and urchin is allowed and(b)the commercial take of lobster, including incidental catch taken under the authority of a lobster permit (see note), and urchin is allowed(c)the take of species not mentioned above and allowed under general take regulations is allowed(d)however, when fishing from the Newport Bay East Jetty the take of all species allowed under general take regulations is allowed.

NOTE: Current allowed incidental catch includes: FGC 8250.5 (b) Crab (other than Dungeness), Kellet's whelk,and octopus.

None

Newport Coast SMCA (continued)





MPA Name

Newport Coast SMCA




G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3) Facilitate and extend current community restoration and stewardship activities through a cluster of MPAs with multiple levels of protection.

To protect species with limited home range, rocky intertidal habitats, maximum kelp, and marine/estuarine connectivity which is important to intertidal and kelp habitat health. Provide opportunity to test effectiveness of mod-low/low level protection SMCA next to a SMR.

The Orange County MPA Cluster simplifies currently complex regulations and reduces 10 current MPAs down 3 continuous MPAs.The 10 year old Orange County Marine Protected Area Council has existing mechanisms in place for ongoing improvements in monitoring, research, education, and enforcement. More than any other area in the study region, local governments and agencies have created robust enforcement alternatives to DFG along with multiple and robust resources standing by or already engaged to provide education and scientific monitoring opportunities.This cluster maximizes socioeconomic benefits for local communities by attracting more tourism, which has developed around the current system of MPAs. The SMCAs' regulations are designed to minimize socioeconomic impacts to fishing interests, and allow 'fishing the line' close to the entrance of both Newport and Dana Point harbors where commercial and recreational anglers could take advantage of the

spillover effect created by the SMR. The SMCAs also do not extend offshore to reduce negative impacts.The diversity of geological formations (San Onofre Brecia, Monterey and Capistrano) creates an exceptionally biologically rich suite of rocky intertidal areas that provide enjoyment and marine education for millions of visitors each year. Several offshore kelp beds contribute to the biodiversity in the area. The largest stretches around the Dana Point Headlands north to Laguna Beach City border. Other kelp beds include the South Laguna, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove and Corona Del Mar beds, all recently flourishing, some of which have restoration projects connected to them. The rocky subtidal substrates create numerous small beds of surf grass (Phyllospadix sp.)that provide a unique nursery habitat and areas for fish and invertebrate life stages. Numerous offshore, rocks and reefs in this area create additional areas of diversity and provide haul out

opportunities for marine mammals and roosting sites for seabirds. Sandy beaches and sand flats in-between the kelp beds and areas of rocky subtidal and intertidal habitat provide increased diversity and ecosystem function including ecotone effects. The Headlands of Dana Point provides a topographic southern boundary and might have oceanographic implications in nutrient circulation, sea surface temperature and larval retention. The Corona Del Mar area could provide an open coast connection with the Newport Back Bay ecosystem.Recommend DFG to consider MOU with regional management agencies (Orange County Marine Protected Area Council) to create a management partnership MPA that would utilize existing enforcement, education, monitoring and public outreach efforts.






Laguna Beach SMR 76731 South Mainland North and East: MHTL from Abalone Point to the south point of Three Arch Bay.South: 33 29' from state waters line to line coming straight south off the south point of Three Arch BayWest: 117 49.2' and state waters line


Designation is not meant to impede ongoing Clean Water Act mandated monitoring, maintenance and marine life sampling for pollutant effects associated with the Aliso Creek sewer outfall. Designation is notmeant to impede Aliso Creek outlet maintenence and other public safety operations necessary to comply with public health and safety issues for the community. The Aliso sewer line and outfall should be covered by a DFG approved-shape SMCA with thesame fishing regulations as the surrounding SMR.

Dana Point SMCA 76721 South Mainland North: 33 29' and MHTLSouth: 33 27' between 117 43' and 117 42.4'East: MHTL and 117 42.4' (west end of jetty) down to 33 27'West: diagonal line with the northwest corner at 33 29' and 117 45' and the southwest corner at 33 27' and 117.43'

SMCA Moderate low Commercial and recreational take of sheephead, rockfish, rays, sharks, marine plants and invertebrates is prohibited, except(a)the recreational take of lobster and urchin is allowed and(b)the commercial take of lobster, including incidental catch taken under the authority of a lobster permit (see note), and urchin is allowed(c)the take of species not mentioned above and allowed under general take regulations is allowed.

NOTE: Current allowed incidental catch includes: FGC 8250.5 (b) Crab (other than Dungeness), Kellet's whelk,and octopus.

None




MPA Name

Laguna Beach SMR

Dana Point SMCA


G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-1), G4: (O-1,O-2)

To protect habitat and species biodiversity. Laguna SMR provides protection of rocky intertidal and pocket coves while extending to offshore habitats.

Work group recommends the Aliso sewer line and outfall should be covered by a DFG approved-shape SMCA with the same fishing regulations as the surrounding SMR.

Forms a cluster with Newport Coast SMCA and Dana Point SMCA, to which an adaptive management strategy can be applied. The west boundary was brought in asfar as possible to minimize the impact to the dory fleet fishery. It is not the intent of this MPA to impede ongoing Clean Water Act mandated monitoring, maintenance and marine life sampling for pollutant effects associated with the Aliso Creek sewer outfall.

Recommend DFG to consider MOU with regional management agencies (Orange County Marine Protected Area Council) to create a management partnership MPA that would utilize existing enforcement, education, monitoring and public outreach efforts.

G2: (O-3), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3) Facilitate and extend current community restoration and stewardship activities through a cluster of MPAs with multiple levels of protection.

Protects some species likely to benefit (sheephead, rockfish) with limited home range, rocky intertidal cobble field, surfgrass nursery and persistent kelp important to intertidal and kelp habitat health. Provide opportunity to test effectiveness of mod-low/low level of protection SMCA next to a SMR.

The Orange County MPA Cluster simplifies currently complex regulations and reduces 10 current MPAs down 3 continuous MPAs.The 10 year old Orange County Marine Protected Area Council has existing mechanisms in place for ongoing improvements in monitoring, research, education, and enforcement. More than any other area in the study region, local governments and agencies have created robust enforcement alternatives to DFG along with multiple and robust resources standing by or already engaged to provide education and scientific monitoring opportunities.This cluster maximizes socioeconomic benefits for local communities by attracting more tourism, which has developed around the current system of MPAs. The SMCAs' regulations are designed to minimize socioeconomic impacts to fishing interests, and allow 'fishing the line' close to the entrance of both Newport and Dana Point harbors where commercial and recreational anglers could take advantage of the spillover effect created by the SMR.






Dana Point SMCA (continued)


Batiquitos Lagoon SMR 76728 South Mainland Intent to designate full extent of estuarine waters in state waters as described in title 14, CDFG Code, with the seaward (west) boundary at the seaward (west) side of the Highway 1 Bridge.


Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance or management activities including estuary mouth opening, scientific research, dune restoration, deposition of sediment and related activities as needed.Boating, swimming, wading, and diving not related to the activities described above are prohibited. Other restrictions exist regarding allowed management activities.

Batiquitos Lagoon SMR (continued)




MPA Name



Batiquitos Lagoon SMR

Batiquitos Lagoon SMR (continued)


The SMCAs also do not extend offshore to reduce negative impacts.The diversity of geological formations (San Onofre Brecia, Monterey and Capistrano) creates an exceptionally biologically rich suite of rocky intertidal areas that provide enjoyment and marine education for millions of visitors each year. Several offshore kelp beds contribute to the biodiversity in the area. The largest stretches around the Dana Point Headlands north to Laguna Beach City border. Other kelp beds include the South Laguna, Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove and Corona Del Mar beds, all recently flourishing, some of which have restoration projects connected to them. The rocky subtidal substrates create numerous small beds of surf grass (Phyllospadix sp.)that provide a unique nursery habitat and areas for fish and invertebrate life stages.

Numerous offshore, rocks and reefs in this area create additional areas of diversity and provide haul out opportunities for marine mammals and roosting sites for seabirds. Sandy beaches and sand flats in-between the kelp beds and areas of rockysubtidal and intertidal habitat provide increased diversity and ecosystem function including ecotone effects. The Headlands of Dana Point provides a topographic southern boundary and might have oceanographic implications in nutrient circulation, sea surface temperature and larval retention. The Corona Del Mar area could providean open coast connection with the Newport Back Bay ecosystem.Recommend DFG to consider MOU with regional management agencies (Orange County Marine Protected Area Council) to create a management partnership MPA that would utilize existing enforcement, education, monitoring and public outreach efforts.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-4,O-5), G3: (O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-4)

To protect diverse estuarine habitats and associated species. Designation representsand protects a healthy and diverse estuarine system with regional importance recognized by its existing MPA designation. This estuary has extensive eel grass habitat and one of the highest fish biodiversities in coastal San Diego. It is important to a number of migratory and resident birds including nesting Least Tern and several other endangered species.Protects area where 10% of all endangered Least Terns in the world are produced.

This designation changes the existing SMP designation, which is inconsistent with Parks vision/guidance, to SMR, to protect a healthy and biodiverse estuary. The allowed take is modified pursuant to DFG guidance ("offers little protection"), to be consistent with customary use. There is outstanding local infrastructure to monitor, manage, interpret, and provide stewardship of this MPA via the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation, CDFG, and others. Forthcoming guidance from department managers of adjacent ecological reserve is intended to be incorporated relative to allowed take. Includes and protects key estuarine habitats and ecological processes. It is surrounded by an ecological reserve and provides for outstanding research opportunities into the ecological relationships between terrestrial, estuarine and marine systems. On-going restoration work maintains good tidal flushing and water quality.

Designation is not intended to impede protection, any restoration activity including dredging and/or deposition of sediment as needed, maintenance management (estuary mouth opening or lagoon maintenance), or scientific research.






Swami's SMCA 76717 South Mainland North: 33 02.7'South: 33 00.5'East: MHTLWest: State waters line

SMCA High The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except the recreational take of Pelagic finfish by Spearfishing.

Designation is not intended to impede beach nourishment borrowing and receiving activities. It is not the intent of this MPA to impede ongoing Clean Water Act mandated monitoring, maintenance and marine life sampling for pollutant effects associated withthe San Elijo sewer outfall.

Swami's SMCA (continued)


San Elijo Lagoon SMR 76729 South Mainland Extent of estuary within state waters. Seaward or west boundary is at the west side of Highway 1 Bridge.


Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance or management activities including estuary mouth opening, scientific research, dune restoration, deposition of sediment and related activities as needed.Boating, swimming, wading, and diving not related to the activities described above are prohibited. Other restrictions exist regarding allowed management activities.




MPA Name

Swami's SMCA



San Elijo Lagoon SMR


G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-2,O-3,O-4), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-3,O-4)

To protect habitat and species biodiversity. This SMCA protects and replicates the closest persistent kelp forest/surfgrass habitat and asociated species south of the Palos Verdes SMR, to meet size and spacing guidelines. It adds connective resilience to the macro-algae ecosystem's food web function, while preserving a naturally bio-diverse biological interaction with the permanently open outlet of San Elijo Lagoon.

SMCA meant to be SMP if a MLPA-compatible moderate-high LOP State Park mission statement evolves for this area (current State Park mission statement includes activities not consistent with a moderate-high LOP). MPA boundaries off the full minute to avoid two popular State Beaches at Moonlight and Cardiff-Seaside with their extensive parking lots. This MPA incorporates two existing ocean SMCA's, fronting state beaches, at Encinitas and San Elijo and a large campground catering mostly to surfers, attracted by a dozen reef-shaped surf spots. There are multiple public access points and a dozen great surf spots, Native American submerged cultural sites, large parking lots serving beach-tourism based local economies including retail surf shops and manufacturing, restaurants and hotels, close to UCSD,Palomar and Mira Costa Colleges.

The south boundary was sited to avoid, to the extent possible, the 1/4 mile buffer around the sewer outfall. MPA is SAT minimum ~9 square miles to minimize impacts to Oceanside harbor fishing efforts. This MPA completes habitat replication requirement for SD county in conjunction with South La Jolla Reef SMR. Swamis allows the array to meet spacing guidelines minimal distance for 8 out of 12 habitat types for spacing in the bioregion.

MPA protects two reefs with persistent kelp forests and extensive surfgrass habitat, contiguous with the large sandy area fronting San Elijo Lagoon that was historically a consistent producer of halibut, sand bass, grunion, sharks, rays and all other sandy habitat species. The flat sandy-conglomerate deposit reefs in North San Diego county do not have the vertical relief or rock garden variety of the study areas finest at La Jolla, are less biodiverse and require larger areas to capture species for a lifecycle. But their extensive kelp and surf grass beds are important for all larvae settlement, retention, protection and juvenile growth, and favored lobster habitat.

It is not the intent of this MPA to impede beach nourishment borrowing and receiving activities. It is not the intent of this MPA to impede ongoing Clean Water Act mandated monitoring, maintenance and marine life sampling for pollutant effects associated with the San Elijo sewer outfall.

G1: (O-2,O-3), G3: (O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-5), G6: (O-4)

Protects important nursery habitat, ecological processes and provides research opportunity. This designation achieves representation and protection of a healthy andpermanently tidally influenced lagoon, and links adjacent or nearby marine habitats together as a protected ecological unit. Lagoon is an important resting, stopover and feeding site for an array of migratory birds and waterfowl.Protects important habitat types and ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, larval exchange, and food supply. Protects nursery habitats for marine species. Provides unique research opportunities for study into relationship of estuarine and marine ecosystems.

Currently no boat access is allowed. An outstanding array of management and stewardship infrastructure exists including CDFG, County of San Diego, San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy. Provides unique research opportunities for study into relationship of estuarine and marine ecosystems. Forthcoming guidance from department managers of adjacent ecological reserve is intended to be incorporated relative to allowed take.Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration activity including sediment removal/deposition as needed, and maintenance management (including estuary mouth opening or re-opening).






San Dieguito Lagoon SMR 76730 South Mainland Extent of estuary in state waters; boundary at Highway 1 bridge.


Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration, maintenance or management activities including estuary mouth opening, scientific research, dune restoration, deposition of sediment and related activities as needed.Boating, swimming, wading, and diving not related to the activities described above are prohibited. Other restrictions exist regarding access to the California Least Tern nesting island, hours of entry, and allowed management activities.

San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA

76703 South Mainland North: 32 53' South: 32 52'East: MHTL West: 117 16.4' (Tenth of a minute line that anchors at Point La Jolla.)

SMCA Moderate low Recreational, coastal pelagic finfish, by hook and line. Purpose is to allow the taking of bait fish by hook and line in the Scripps Pier shadows where they congregate. This location is a primary kayak fishermen's bait source for La Jolla fishing trips.

Designation is not intended to impede pier maintenance or research activities, scientific collection by SIO/UCSD, the Southwest Fisheries Science Center and Birch Aquarium or laboratory tank ocean water intake and discharge activities by these entities.

San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA (continued)




MPA Name

San Dieguito Lagoon SMR

San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA



G1: (O-4), G3: (O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3,O-5), G6: (O-4)

Designation achieves representation and protection of this restored and diverse estuary. Formerly the largest coastal lagoon in San Diego County, this estuary is a nursery site for marine species and has importance for migratory birds and waterfowl including Least Terns, and Belding's Savannah Sparrow.Protection achieves protection of key habitats types and ecological process such as nutrient cycling, food supply, larval exchange and retention and provides important research opportunities into the relationships between estuarine and marine ecosystems.

Converts current designation from SMP to SMR. Forthcoming guidance from department managers of adjacent ecological is intended to be incorporated relative toallowed take. A robust corps of local stewards exists to facilitate enforcement, monitoring, interpretation and management. Extensive on-going restoration project is expanding area of estuarine and salt marsh habitat. Is the terminus of a significant public trail and watershed. Watershed JPA exists to facilitate management.

Designation is not intended to impede protection, restoration activity including deposition of sediment as needed, maintenance management, scientific research, estuary mouth opening.

G1: (O-2,O-3,O-4), G3: (O-1,O-2), G4: (O-1), G5: (O-4,O-5)

Protects most of the unique Scripps Canyon branch of La Jolla's submarine canyon system and associated species biodiversity, and the southern-most natural native mussel bed in the study region. Provides for Goal 3 opportunities.

San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA forms a cluster with the Matlahuayl SMR and extends from its northern and western borders, adding another 1.45 sq mi to the cluster for critical additional protection of complementary key food web habitats and biodiversity. Replaces the existing ASBS-designated San Diego-Scripps SMCA, expanded to include the 1972 UCSD 800 acre submerged lands lease, which encompasses most of the unique Scripps Canyon branch of La Jolla's submarine canyon system, fronting UCSD's terrestrial Scripps Coastal Reserve property. Birch Aquarium, Scripps Institution of Oceanography and UCSD have used Scripps Pier and Scripps Canyon for marine biology and oceanography research and teaching activities since 1957.Scripps Canyon is unique in the study area, a narrow, steep-walled, deep rock fissureapproaching shore at a 90 degree angle,

reaching a depth of 500 feet about twice the length of Scripps Pier offshore, interrupting and collecting the southward streaming Oceanside littoral cell's constant flow of sand, detritus and estuarine nutrients. The canyon is a reliable haven for a wide variety of deep water species in close proximity and trophic interaction with nearshore species assemblages. Detritus, mainly tangled kelp and surfgrass from north San Diego County, piles into a spacious, well-oxygenated mat on the canyon floor that provides both forage and shelter from predators for a host of small crustaceans - a rare circumstance that allows the mat to achieve one of the highest secondary production levels every recorded, with up to three million small crustaceans counted per cubic meter - forming a reliable and nutritious food web base for the highly productive La Jolla reef and Canyon ecosystem and fishery.








Matlahuayl SMR 76720 South Mainland North: 32 52'South: MHTLEast: MHTLWest: 117 16.4 (Aligned with Point La Jolla)


Maintain existing restrictions regarding: boat launching areas and anchoring times. Designation is not intended to impede pier maintenance or research activities, scientific collection by SIO/UCSD, the Southwest Fisheries Science Center and Birch Aquarium or laboratory tank ocean water intake and discharge activities by these entities. If needed, DFG should change the MPA designation to SMCA, to accommodate heavy permitted inter-tidal auto traffic at the beach boat and kayak launch, and periodic beach nourishment activities at La Jolla Shores, the City of San Diego's most visited beach. Designation is not intended to impede these activities.




MPA Name



Matlahuayl SMR


This unique canyon has been an invaluable study opportunity and laboratory for research and teaching in Marine Biology, Ecology and Oceanography at UCSD/Scripps Institute of Oceanography, since 1957 and was designated a foundingreserve in the UC Natural Reserve System (NRS) in 1965, and received ASBS designation in 1974. UCSD Regents purchased the available undeveloped watershed land upstream from Scripps Canyon for a reserve, and obtained an 800 acre underwater lease from the City of San Diego underwater park in 1971, that includes Scripps Canyon and extends north to the limits of the UC Reserve property line at the coast.

Protection and ongoing long-term natural habitat restoration of the upland portion of the Scripps Coastal Reserve and it's drainage into the shoreline mouth of Scripps Canyon, ensures control of non-point source surface run-off to bring water quality discharges up to ocean ASBS standards. There is current reserve monitoring and enforcement by SIO and Natural Reserve System (NRS) staff and docents, UCSD police, and La Jolla Lifeguards in conjunction with the DFG.Recommend DFG to consider MOU with Kumeyaay communities to create an educational and stewardishp partnership MPA aimed at enhancing cultural, educational, and historical opportunities present at this site.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-4,O-5), G3: (O-1), G4: (O-1), G5: (O-1,O-4,O-5)

Protects an unique sheltered cove and varied reef structure and associated species, kelp forest and contiguous sandy bottom interface at the head of the La Jolla Submarine Canyon's southern branch. Current home to many large tame specimens of a wide variety of species.

Work group recommends changing the MPA designation to SMCA, to allow and accommodate heavy permitted inter-tidal auto traffic at the beach boat and kayak launch, and periodic beach nourishment activities at La Jolla Shores, the City of San Diego's most visited beach. This ASBS area is famous for leopard shark breeding, southern most squid spawningand once-great abalone habitat. Heavily fished outside the reserve, a slight expansion to existing corner landmark and tenth of a minute will provide some incremental additional resident species protection. Adjusts existing SMCA boundaries to meet DFG guidelines and simplify take regulations for this well established small La Jolla Cove ASBS Reserve. Does not meet DFG guidelines to extend to state waters line because further expansion west would be detrimental to fishing.






Matlahuayl SMR (continued)

South La Jolla Reefs SMR 76714 South Mainland North: 32 50' (Little Point)South: 32 47.8'East: MHTLWest: State waters line


This SMR is not intended to and will not regulate current or future military activities. DFG and U.S. Department of Defense should coordinate regulatory language similar to that for Vandenberg SMR.Recommend DFG places an SMCA designation over the existing Military use area located at the north western corner of the SMR, with the same fishing regulations as the SMR.

South La Jolla Reefs SMR (continued)





MPA Name

Matlahuayl SMR (continued)

South La Jolla Reefs SMR




La Jolla Cove is the number one recreational ocean fishing and non-consumptive tourist destination in the south coast study area, serving millions of divers, kayakers, surfers, swimmers and paddlers. Safe kayak launch and the only drive-on-beach small boat launch in region. Extensive parking and shoreline observation opportunities with many amenities and good access points along the proposed SMR. UCSD and SIO overlook. La Jolla, from Matlahuayl, means place of caves in the Kumayaay language. (Not la joya or the jewel in Spanish, as is commonly believed.) The sea caves included in this SMR and other ceremonial and submerged sites are vital to the cultural heritage of the Kumeyaay.

Recommend DFG to consider MOU with State Parks and Kumeyaay communities to create an educational and stewardishp partnership MPA aimed at enhancing cultural, educational, and historical opportunities present at this site.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4)

To protect habitats and species biodiversity. An essential backbone SMR, this La Jolla rocky reef complex is the largest and most biodiverse in the study region with the most vertical relief and variety of reef structure, from cobbles to boulders to fissures, cliffs, persistent kelp forest canopy, caves and corresponding species biodiversity. Protects the most important consolidated rocky reef replicate in the Southern coastal bio-region, extending from rocky shore to intertidal to 30m hard proxy, to rarest 30-100m reef to the state limit.

Work group recommends placing an SMCA designation over the existing Military use area located at the north western corner of the SMR, with the same fishing regulations as the SMR so as not to impede military activities.At 1.2 sq mi, the SAT-designated, rare 30 to 100 meter key rocky habitat, nearest to next replicate at Palos Verdes, included in this South La Jolla minimum sized SMR, is more abundant than in all the other study area coastal MPAs combined, and this SMR still leaves an equal amount of this rarest reef in north La Jolla open for commercial and recreational harvest. North boundary fixed at Little Point (32 50') to capture important persistent kelp replicate. South boundary set just north of Crystal Pier at Garnet Ave to allow pier fishing and make a recognizable MPA transition pointon land. All SAT-listed key offshore habitats embrace this reef, making it a unique microcosm of the entire study region, including a deep sub-marine canyon with two shoreline branches,

one hard and one soft bottomed.This productive rocky reef habitat SMR, isolated by spacious, mostly sandy terrain to the south and contiguous rocky reef to the north, allows contrasting edge fishing harvest environments for long term scientific evaluation and study, while leaving the most important kayak, shore, CPFV and commercial fishing area in La Jolla open. The prime fishing area off of La Jolla Cove is bounded on the north by a deep canyonand soft bottom which functions as a funnel for big-game pelagics, forage fish and a wide variety of sandy habitat and primary and secondary forage species to spill into the fishing zone, guaranteeing abundance for the traditional best La Jolla fishing grounds, while conserving the precious breeding and rearing habitats to the north and south necessary for sustainability.

Consistent upwelling canyon nutrients from the north and three steady big river outflows to the south feed a biodiverse and highly productive food web. The La Jolla marine ecosystem is unmatched for beauty, clarity, water quality and biologic diversity, with a thriving local onshore economy historically focused on matchless coastal recreation and tourism. La Jolla is currently a non-consumptive tourist and recreational fishing mecca dependent on its vibrant nearshore marine ecosystem. Scripps Institute of Oceanography and UCSD overlook much of the SMR and can both monitor, study and help enforce the simple regulations.






Cabrillo SMR 76708 South Mainland North: 32 41'South: 32 39.7'East: 117 14.3' and MHTLWest: 117 15'


None

Cabrillo SMR (continued)


Tijuana River Mouth SMCA 76709 South Mainland North: 32 35' from 117 09' due east to MHTLSouth: State waters line from 117 09' due east to MHTLWest: 117 09' from 32 35' due south to state waters lineEast: MHTL from latitude 32 35' to US/Mexico border

SMCA Moderate high The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except the recreational take of Pier fishing (any target) by Hook and line; Pier fishing (any target) by Hoop net; and Pier fishing (any target) by Dip net.

Designation is not intended to impede restoration, deposition of sediment, sand borrowing or dredging activities in the near shore zone adjacent to the TRNERR for any research, beach or dune nourishment projects, opening the mouth of the Tijuana River if it is blocked, or implementation of the City of Imperial Beach beach replenishment and maintenance programs.




MPA Name

Cabrillo SMR



Tijuana River Mouth SMCA


G2: (O-1), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-5), G6: (O-1)

To protect habitat and species biodiversity. The Cabrillo SMR protects the most well conserved rocky intertidal and nearshore marine habitats, including surf grass, kelp forest, and rocky intertidal environments and corresponding species diversity on the southern California mainland.

Cabrillo National Monument, a unit of the National Park Service (NPS) has administrative jurisdiction that extends offshore and the NPS is committed to managing the area in a manner consistent with the goals and values of the NPS and the State's Marine Life Protection Act. An SMR is consistent with the federal laws governing the NPS and the NPS is currently working on a Memorandum of Understanding with the State regarding the implementation of the MLPA. There are very few areas where there is juxtaposition of an SMR with a place-based manager and the NPS is committed to providing law enforcement personnel and equipment to the protection of this area. This unique opportunity enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of managing the MPA through collaborative science, resources management and protection, law enforcement, education and outreach.

Approximately 1,000,000 people visit the area annually which provides access to the ocean for thousands of school children and other groups. This MPA includes cultural submerged sites. Cabrillo has a 20 year long term intertidal monitoring study and research is being conducted by PISCO. Peer reviewed science indicates invertebratespecies at Cabrillo have more complete size distributions and include larger individuals than anywhere else on the mainland in this study region. For this reason the Cabrillo SMR meets Goal 1 Objective 3. It is recognized that the areas offshore are valuable fishing grounds for urchins and lobsters, as well as vessels travelling from San Diego Bay. This design protects the diversity of near shore ecosystems.Replaces and expands the existing Mia J. Tegner SMCA.

Does not meet DFG guidelines to extend to state waters line because negative socioeconomic impacts would be too great and it would extend beyond the offshore administrative jurisdiction of the NPS. Recommend DFG to consider MOU with NPS and Native American communities to create an educational and stewardishp partnership MPA aimed at enhancing cultural, educational, and historical opportunities present at this site.

G1: (O-4,O-5), G2: (O-3), G3: (O-2,O-3), G6: (O-1,O-2)

This SMCA protects Tijuana River estuary's offshore ocean food web connectivity and provides persistent, convenient forage for protected estuarine and shore bird breeding colonies and provides Goal 3 opportunities.

Tijuana River Estuary is a multi-agency-regulated National Estuarine Research Reserve (TRNERR) site; the SMCA will create the largest, most intact estuarine/contiguous offshore marine reserve complex in the Southern California bioregion, anchoring the MPA network at the Mexican border. NOAA has established a vigorous research and monitoring program within the TRNERR, including long-termwater quality, nutrient, and weather data collection. Monitoring has also been occurring offshore in the area.

Offshore line set at the limit of easy estuarine bird access, leaving the further offshoreportion open to fishing. This shape accommodates recreational fishing and concerns voiced by the City of Imperial Beach. This MPA site is primarily delineated following Goal 3 and Objectives 2 and 3 in the MLPA.

SMCA provides a model for understanding estuarine/ocean dynamics,






Tijuana River Mouth SMCA (continued)

North Catalina SMR 76705 East Channel Islands North: State waters lineSouth: MHTLEast: Line due north of Arrow Point tip along 118 32.3'West: Line due north of West End tip along 118 36.37'


None

North Catalina SMR (continued)





MPA Name

Tijuana River Mouth SMCA (continued)

North Catalina SMR




informs future adaptive management in estuary and ocean interface throughout the bioregion and encourages collaboration with core agencies, institutions, and international organizations, enabling better understanding of estuarine and marine ecosystems in the California Bight. The endangered California Least Tern is emblematic of connections between coastal zone habitats and nearshore zone at thissite which is a stop over point on the Pacific Coast Flyway. There is concern about the live bait fishery impact on the tern and brown pelican foraging area. The MPA would include part of the largest cobble reef in southern California, a river mouth delta, soft sediment, largest south coast region offshore cobble reef 3 by 3 km, major barred sand bass spawning area, persistent kelp bed, surfgrass, freshwater plume; five key habitats included. Fish, like California halibut, rely on the estuary as a nursery returning to the marine environment later in life.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-1,O-3,O-4)

Protects habitats and biodiversity. This backbone regional ASBS SMR for ecologically important size, spacing and key habitat linkages protects northern, partially sheltered Catalina Island coastal habitats and species biodiversity.It encompasses significant habitat diversity, with full representation of eight key habitats, including boulder and bedrock shores, headlands, pocket beaches, low and high relief subtidal kelp reefs, shallow sand plains, slopes, and deep soft bottom habitats.

This very productive MPA is entirely high water quality ASBS, containing valuable headland/cove persistent kelp forests along with diverse algae, surfgrass, and invertebrate communities comprising warmer-water assemblages than Farnsworth SMR. MPA includes full representation of 8 key habitats (plus soft 30-100m is just 0.13 square miles below SAT minimum). Species likely to benefit include rockfishes, kelp bass, giant sea bass, sheephead, angel shark, rock scallops, abalone (including endangered blacks and whites), lobster, and sea cucumbers. MPA was designed to capture adequate representation of diverse key habitats at north-facing Catalina region with readily recognizable boundaries (east and west lines extend due north of Arrow Point and West End),

yet minimize socio-economic impacts by avoiding popular fishing region from West End to Catalina Harbor and by avoiding popular mooring coves and recreational areas from Arrow Point to Two Harbors. Creation of MPA is coupled with removal of Special Invertebrate Closure (Arrow Point to Lion's Head) to consolidate full protection area, enhance recreational fishing convenient to boat mooring areas, and provide opportunity for scientific study of effects of opening up an invertebrate closure. Both Farnsworth and North Catalina SMR's are less than preferred size to accommodate fishing interests, with the addition of small lee-side SMR's at Blue Cavern and Long Point to complement the larger SMR's and provide effective regional representation at Catalina.

Commercial fishing already is largely prohibited from this region of Catalina. Recreational fishing occurs, but is less common than elsewhere at Catalina, making it a good compromise area. MPA is located relatively far from Avalon, Cat Harbor, and Isthmus boating areas, and contains no mooring coves. Within research boat range of the USC Wrigley Marine Lab, MPA offers excellent opportunity for cooperative scientific study of inside/outside reserve effects as well as in comparison with removal of adjacent Arrow Point to Lion's Head invertebrate closure and with Blue Cavern SMR. MPA provides wonderful educational opportunities for Boy Scouts and other children and families in nearby Emerald Bay.






Blue Cavern SMR 76707 East Channel Islands North: 33 27.2'South: MHTLEast: 118 27'West: 118 29.3'


None

Blue Cavern SMR (continued)

Long Point SMR 76706 East Channel Islands North: 33 25.5'South: MHTLEast: landmark = Long PointWest: 118 24'


None




MPA Name

Blue Cavern SMR

Blue Cavern SMR (continued)

Long Point SMR


G1: (O-3,O-4,O-5), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1), G5: (O-1,O-2,O-4,O-5)

This expansion of heritage Catalina Marine Science Center MPA was designed for ideal research and education Goal 3/Goal 4 elements, as well as protecting valuable sheltered, warmer water habitats and species such as eelgrass, rock wall, offshore rock (Bird Rock) and deepwater elk kelp communities.

This MPA replaces and expands existing Catalina Marine Science Center SMR, an incredibly important heritage SMR for research, monitoring, and environmental educational programs at the USC Wrigley Marine Lab. The new MPA was carefully designed to capture adequate representation of diverse key habitats, including the exceptionally well-studied Bird Rock ecosystem (with lobster nursery surfgrass, sea palm, kelp forest, sea wall habitats, and containing the longest (27 yr) intertidal monitoring site in southern California), while avoiding popular fishing areas throughout Isthmus Cove such as Isthmus Reef, High Spot, and Ship Rock. North boundary created at 33 27.2' instead of 28' line to reduce impacts to sport boats trolling as they enter and leave Isthmus Cove. West boundary created at 118 29.3' to include Bird Rock but exclude Isthmus Reef (for fishing value) and to better conform to

DFG feasibility guidelines (note that this removes a small portion from existing MPA). MPA is below minimum size and extends to deep water, but not three-mile state boundary because its primary purpose is for MLPA Goals 3 and 4: to improve educational and study opportunities in representative/unique habitats for their intrinsicvalue consistent with protecting biodiversity. Here the outreach/study opportunities and habitat/species diversity can be captured without extending so far offshore that it impacts pelagic fishing by sport vessels and deepwater commercial fishing. Smaller size MPA also provides regional representation around Catalina (e.g., deepwater elk kelp thickets are only significantly represented in Blue Cavern and Long Point SMRs) and is easier for USC Marine Lab to provide oversight of reserve management such as already occurs.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G3: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-1,O-3,O-4,O-5)

This headland/cove studded MPA was designed specifically to meet Goal 3 and 4 elements, including improving educational and study opportunities and protecting natural heritage habitats and species.

This area, not far from the Catalina Island Marine Institute, represents the warmest, most wave-sheltered portion of the East Channel Islands Bioregion, encompassing highly diverse features including headlands, calm coves with unique, research-studied stable sand species assemblages, deep water elk kelp, and the best known (most highly visited) giant black sea bass spawning aggregation site in California.

This MPA is designed to meet Goals 3 and 4, including protecting diverse natural heritage ecosystems and species and improving educational and study opportunities in warm-water, wave-sheltered portion of East Channel Islands Bioregion. Ten key habitats are well represented, including rocky intertidal, beaches, shallow and deep soft bottoms, fringing kelp reefs, and two important nursery habitats: shallow surfgrass and deep elk kelp. Long Point and Blue Cavern are the only MPAs at Catalina with substantial forests of sand-based deepwater elk kelp that provide intricate thickets sheltering a wealth of fishes and invertebrates. The well-studied stable sand habitats in this area harbor ecologically unique species assemblages, including burrowing worms, snails, clams, crabs, sub-tropical mantis shrimp, heart urchins, and fishes such as orange-throat pikeblennies, turbot, halibut, and giant black sea bass.






Long Point SMR (continued)



Farnsworth SMR 76704 East Channel Islands North: 33 21'South: 33 18.5' from state waters line to 118 24'East: 118 24' from the MHTL south to 33 18.5'West: State waters line


Recommend that permanent moorings be installed at Farnsworth Bank to facilitate safe non-consumptive visitation of this special pinnacle area while protecting the colonies of purple hydrocoral from anchor damage.




MPA Name




Farnsworth SMR


This MPA will protect the best known and most-visited giant sea bass spawning aggregation site in southern California. Though a protected species, these incredibly huge fish are currently subject to bycatch and uninformed spearing, and their prey areactively fished. Another fish in need of protection is the California sheephead, an ICUN "vulnerable" species that is currently harvested commercially (live trapping) and recreationally all around the island. A recent Sea Grant Study (Caselle et al. 2009) at Catalina found that trophy fishing caused declining male size that adversely affects reproduction in the species. Long Point SMR is a great location for educational programs about marine reserve values. Nearby Button Shell (Camp Fox) and Toyon Coves (Catalina Island Marine Institute) contain popular camps where thousands of school children and families learn about marine ecology and values of Marine Protected Areas.

Scientists working through the USC Wrigley Marine Lab conduct research in this MPA and can readily compare Long Point reserve to other Catalina MPAs. This SMR is below minimum size because its primary purpose is for MLPA Goals 3 and 4: to improve educational and study opportunities in representative/unique habitats for their intrinsic value consistent with protecting biodiversity. Here the outreach/study opportunities and habitat/species diversity can be captured without extending so far offshore that it impacts pelagic fishing by sport vessels and deepwater commercial fishing. The MPA also provides regional representation around Catalina as recommended by Parnell, Miller, & Dayton (2006). SMR is designed to capture adequate representation of diverse key habitats, yet minimize negative socioeconomic impacts by avoiding popular fishing areas and mooring coves from Avalon to Long Point.

North boundary created at 33 25.5' instead of 26' line and lack of extension to 3 mi state boundary designed to reduce impacts to commercial and sport boats fishing offshore since deepwater habitats (>100m depths) already included in the reserve. East boundary is due north of tip of Long Point, a readily recognizable headland landmark. MPA is situated away from major boating areas at Isthmus and at Avalon. This is the only MPA representing the warmest and calmest marine environments at Catalina since boaters desire to retain popular fishing locations closer to Avalon.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G3: (O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-2,O-3,O-4,O-5), G6: (O-3,O-4)

This backbone regional MPA was designed to meet size, spacing, and habitat replications by protecting exceptional biodiversity and all required SAT key habitat replicates except 100 - 3000 meter rock.This efficient East Channel Islands SMR protects the highly productive, wave-exposed portion of southwest Catalina, with prime intertidal habitats (optimal for endangered black abalone restoration), coastal eelgrass, surfgrass, kelp reefs, sand plains, and high relief offshore pinnacles, including Farnsworth Bank, the best known seamount in So Cal, with an existing MPA and ASBS to protect its rare purple hydrocoral community.

Farnsworth is an ecological bonanza (full representation of 13 key habitats) with hundreds of species likely to benefit including rockfishes, kelp bass, scorpionfish, giant sea bass, sheephead, angel shark, leopard shark, halfmoon, rock crabs, rock scallops, abalone (e.g., endangered whites and blacks), lobster, sea cucumbers, kelp, eelgrass and all species that feed on squid spawning aggregations. It protects aportion of deepwater soft bottom squid spawning habitat while leaving all other windward Catalina open to squid seining. Size is smaller than preferred (and south boundary follows half min instead of whole min latitude line) to accommodate fishing uses to northwest and southeast while protecting unique and critically important key habitats.






Farnsworth SMR (continued)

San Nicolas Alpha Area Military Closure

76715 West Channel Islands Use formal description for military closure Area Alpha.

Undesignated N/A Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

San Nicolas Alpha Area Military Closure (continued)





MPA Name

Farnsworth SMR (continued)

San Nicolas Alpha Area Military Closure




Eastward extension of MPA is designed to capture approximately 1/3 extent of largest eelgrass (Zostera) nursery meadow at Channel Islands (and the most significant bed in East Channel Islands Bioregion). MPA is relatively distant from major overnight mooring areas at Cat Harbor/Isthmus Cove and Avalon and avoids Little Harbor and Ben Weston Beach used as anchorage for small boats and kayak launch sites. Recognizing the value of windward Catalina for commercial and recreational fishing, no other MPA is proposed for this side.

G1: (O-1,O-2,O-3,O-4), G2: (O-1,O-2,O-3), G4: (O-1,O-2), G5: (O-3), G6: (O-3,O-4)

Protects habitats and biodiversity.

This is a preferred size backbone regional 'MPA equivalent' for ecologically important size and spacing linkages, which represents rich offshore California Current conditions. This ASBS area protects nine key habitats and associated species, including beaches, rocky shores, shallow reefs and sand plains, persistent kelp, and surfgrass. Also protected is an extensive reef shelf of 30-100m, (which represents 14% of this habitat in the entire study region), that exists outside an abundant area of kelp forest, and marine bird and mammal areas.

The military already prohibits anchoring and fishing in Area Alpha, so this area has been offered by the Navy as the only location at San Nicolas Island available for 'MPA equivalent' placement. Despite existing fishing ban, some commercial fishing does occur. The Navy has stated that if Area Alpha becomes an MPA equivalent, they will actively enforce the existing fishing prohibition, including banning take by military personnel. Like the rest of San Nicolas Island, Area Alpha contains an amazingly rich variety and quantity of highly productive habitats and species due to its extensive shelf reef (extending out several miles) and offshore position exposed tothe rich California Current. As southernmost island in West Channel Islands Bioregion, it hosts a unique mixture of northern and southern species.

The preferred size MPA equivalent area contains nine fully represented key habitats as well as significant sea bird and marine mammal areas, (including resident population of sea otters). It includes some of the best rocky intertidal habitat for endangered black abalone, and represents one of the few remaining locations with significant populations that may contain individuals resistant to abalone withered foot syndrome. Other species likely to benefit include rockfishes, giant sea bass, sheephead, angel shark, rock scallops, abalone, lobster, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. The US Geological Service has been monitoring intertidal and subtidal species assemblages at San Nicolas Island for more than two decades, including Area Alpha - surveys that would greatly benefit from ability to separate fishing effects from natural ecosystem dynamics.

Socioeconomic impacts should not be a factor at Area Alpha since fishing already is prohibited. Those currently fishing there despite the ban will continue to have all otherareas around the island available for harvest. Note that Area Bravo would be better compromise candidate for MPA, having higher diversity habitats, more sea otter habitat that has been studied long-term, and less negative socioeconomic impacts, but Navy did not allow MPA equivalent option for Area Bravo. Note also that military boundaries do not conform exactly to DFG feasibility guidelines, but cannot be altered by the MLPA process and already are well known and delineated on nautical charts.






San Clemente Pending Military Closure 1

76711 East Channel Islands Use formal description for military closure SWAT 1 Safety Area.

Undesignated N/A Managed and enforced by the U.S. Navy as a federal Safety Zone, this area will be restricted to military training only. Due to access restrictionsresulting from the Safety Zone, the marine environments will not be exposed to any take other than that resulting from military training operations.

This area is a Federal Safety Zone managed by the U.S. Navy.


76710 East Channel Islands Use formal description for military closure Wilson Cove Security Area.

Undesignated N/A Managed and enforced by the U.S. Navy as a federal Safety Zone, this area will be restricted to military training only. Due to access restrictionsresulting from the Safety Zone, the marine environments will not be exposed to any take other than that resulting from military training operations.

This area is a Federal Safety Zone managed by the U.S. Navy.

Richardson Rock SMR 76690 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Judith Rock SMR 76701 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Harris Point SMR 76691 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

South Point SMR 76700 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Carrington Point SMR 76692 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Skunk Point SMR 76702 West Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Painted Cave SMCA 76697 Mid Channel Islands None SMCA Moderate low The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except:1. The recreational take of Lobster by Hoop net; Lobster by Diving; and Pelagic finfish by Spearfishing.2. The commercial take of Lobster by Trap.

None




MPA Name



Richardson Rock SMR

Judith Rock SMR

Harris Point SMR

South Point SMR

Carrington Point SMR

Skunk Point SMR

Painted Cave SMCA



This MPA has been included per BRTF guidance.

This represents a military closure on San Clemente Island called SWAT-1. When finalized by the government, entry into this area will be prohibited for safety reasons whether or not it is designated as an MPA equivalent; therefore, it will effectively be a no-take area except for military exercises.

Some socioeconomic impacts will occur in this area whether or not it is designated an MPA equivalent since the military is closing this area for safety reasons. Designation may increase protection from possible take by military personnel. There will be some impacts from military exercises, but these appear to be relatively small, so level of protection should be high. Boundaries may not conform exactly to DFG feasibility guidelines, but are already determined by the military.


Protects habitats and biodiversity. This above minimum size backbone regional SMR equivalent contributes to ecologically important size and spacing linkages representing northeastern exposure conditions off San Clemente Island in the East Channel Islands Bioregion. This MPA protects six key habitats in an ASBS, including beaches, rocky shores, shallow reefs and sand, persistent kelp and surfgrass as well as associated species.

This represents the Federal Closure located on the east side of San Clemente Island called SWAT 2 or Wilson Cove Security Area. Entry into this area will be prohibited for safety reasons whether or not it is designated as an MPA equivalent; therefore, it will effectively be a no-take area except for military exercises. This area and Swat 1 Safety area are the only locations at the island that are available for MPA placement.Some socioeconomic impacts will occur in this area whether or not it is designated an MPA equivalent since the military is closing this area for security and safety reasons. Designation may increase protection from possible take by military personnel. There will be some impacts from military exercises, but these appear to be relatively small, so level of protection should be high. Boundaries may not conformexactly to DFG feasibility guidelines, but are already determined by the military.

None Specified None None












Gull Island SMR 76698 Mid Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Scorpion SMR 76699 Mid Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Footprint SMR 76693 Mid Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Anacapa Island SMCA 76695 Mid Channel Islands None SMCA Moderate low The take of all living marine resources is prohibited except:1. The recreational take of Lobster by Hoop net; Lobster by Diving; and Pelagic finfish by Spearfishing.2. The commercial take of Lobster by Trap.

None

Anacapa Island SMR 76694 Mid Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None

Santa Barbara Island SMR 76696 Mid Channel Islands None SMR Very high Take of all living marine resources is prohibited.

None




MPA Name

Gull Island SMR

Scorpion SMR

Footprint SMR

Anacapa Island SMCA

Anacapa Island SMR

Santa Barbara Island SMR









California MLPA South Coast Study RegionConsideration of Existing State MPAs in Revised SCRSG MPA Proposal 3

Document Revision Date December 2, 2009

Existing MPA Name

Retain(no changes to boundaries or regulations)

Modify(included with boundary or regulation

change)Remove

(not included) Rationale for DecisionRefugio SMCA Remove Does not contribute to backbone protection; existing

regulations and design infeasible, similar habitat protected elsewhere.

Goleta Slough SMP Modify regulations. Replace with Goleta Slough SMR.

Regionally important estuary; SMP designation inappropriate, SMR consistent w/current use, steelhead stream, nutrients, nursury, interface, edcuational research use.

Big Sycamore Canyon SMR Remove Failed MPA and does not contribute to backbone protection; similar habiat protected elsewhere.

Abalone Cove SMP Remove Significant erosion and water quality issues exist, and does not contribute to backbone protection.

Point Fermin SMP Remove Does not contribute to backbone protection; existing regulations and design infeasible, similar habitat protected elsewhere.

Bolsa Chica SMP Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Bolsa Chica SMR.

Regionally important estuary; existing docent/steward organizations, education, and signage. State park is adjacent. Important nursury habitat and ecological processes.

Upper Newport Bay SMP Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Upper Newport Bay SMR.

Unique upland estuary; stopover on Pacific flyway, important ecological processes, provides research opportunities.

Robert E Badham SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Newport Coast SMCA.

Existing regulations and design infeasible, incorporated into Newport Coast SMCA.

Crystal Cove SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Newport Coast SMCA.


Irvine Coast SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Newport Coast SMCA.


Heisler Park SMR Modify boundaries. Replace with Laguna Beach SMR.

Incorporated into Laguna Beach SMR to achieve backbone protection for nearshore habitats.

Laguna Beach SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Laguna Beach SMR.

Existing regulations and design infeasible, incorporated into Laguna Beach SMR to achieve backbone protection for nearshore habitats.




Existing MPA Name



change)Remove

(not included) Rationale for DecisionSouth Laguna Beach SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations.

Replace with Laguna Beach SMR.Existing regulations and design infeasible, incorporated into Laguna Beach SMR to achieve backbone protection for nearshore habitats.

Niguel SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Dana Point SMCA.

Existing regulations and design infeasible, incorporated into Dana Point SMCA.

Dana Point SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Dana Point SMCA.

Existing regulations and design infeasible, incorporated into Dana Point SMCA.

Doheny SMCA Remove Does not contribute to backbone protection; existing regulations and design infeasible, similar habitat protected elsewhere.

Doheny Beach SMCA Remove Does not contribute to backbone protection; existing regulations and design infeasible, similar habitat protected elsewhere.

Buena Vista Lagoon SMP Remove Per Department of Fish and Game GuidanceAgua Hedionda Lagoon SMR Remove Artificial and industrial habitat; water quality concerns,

intake/discharge of power plant, aquaculture conflicts.Batiquitos Lagoon SMP Modify boundaries and regulations.

Replace with Batiquitos Lagoon SMR.Regionally important estuary; diverse estuarine system, high fish biodiversity, important to Least Terns and other birds.

Encinitas SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Swami's SMCA.

Incorporate into Swami's SMCA to achieve backbone protection for nearshore and deep rock habitats.

Cardiff-San Elijo SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Swami's SMCA.

Incorporate into Swami's SMCA to achieve backbone protection for nearshore and deep rock habitats.

San Elijo Lagoon SMP Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with San Elijo Lagoon SMR.

Convert to SMR to represent significant estuarine protection; important nursery habitat and ecological processes and provides research opportunity.

San Dieguito Lagoon SMP Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with San Dieguito Lagoon SMR.

Regionally important estuary; nursery habitat, important for migratory birds and waterfowl, important ecological processes.

San Diego-Scripps SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with San Diego-Scripps Coastal

Included within San Diego-Scripps Coastal SMCA to achieve protection of canyon and nearshore habitats.




Existing MPA Name



change)Remove

(not included) Rationale for DecisionLa Jolla SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations.

Replace with Matlahuayl SMR.Included within Matlahuayl SMR to achieve representation of nearshore and other habitats.

Mia J Tegner SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Cabrillo SMR.

Included within Cabrillo SMR to incorporate regionally outstanding habitats and national park values.

Catalina Marine Science Center SMR

Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Blue Cavern SMR.

Included within Blue Cavern SMR to achieve nearshore habitat protection including emergent rock and reef protection, and to continue to provide research opportunities.

Farnsworth Bank SMCA Modify boundaries and regulations. Replace with Farnsworth SMR.

Included within Farnsworth SMR to achieve backbone protection of nearshore and deep habitats including rare corals.

Lover's Cove SMCA Remove Does not contribute to backbone protection; local custom of protection adequate.

Richardson Rock SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceJudith Rock SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceHarris Point SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceSouth Point SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceCarrington Point SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceSkunk Point SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidancePainted Cave SMCA Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceGull Island SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceScorpion SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceFootprint SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceAnacapa Island SMCA Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceAnacapa Island SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceSanta Barbara Island SMR Retain Per Fish and Game Commission GuidanceArrow Point to Lion Head Point Special Closure

Remove Removing this closure due to proposed protection of nearby similar habitats in North Catalina SMR.


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